How long can Microsoft keep charging for Xbox Live?

The news that Games for Windows Live - essentially a PC version of Xbox Live - will now be available for free makes it increasingly difficult for Microsoft to justify charging a subscription to Xbox Live.

I'm a big fan of Xbox Live. Friend lists, achievements, ease of use - Live still towers above the Playstation and Wii online services. But then it should. Live costs around 40 quid a year, Sony and Nintendo's offerings are free. Sure the service is good but how long can Microsoft get away with charging? The news that Games for Windows Live - essentially a PC version of Xbox Live - will now be available for free makes it increasingly difficult for Microsoft to justify charging a subscription to Xbox Live.

Of course unlike the 360 the PC has a number of competitors for gaming services - Steam, in particular is a far slicker offering than Windows Live - and this has obviously had an influence on the price cut. And yes there are a stack of potentially exciting upgrades on the way for Live - Live Party and Primetime could ultimately be as important to the 360's future as Halo 4 - but you have to wonder how long we'll be asked to pay extra to play online with our 360's. My guess? Depending on US PS3 sales in the next year I reckon Xbox Live will be free within 18 months. What do you think?